Irrfan Khan, the late legendary actor, left an indelible mark on both Indian and international cinema. Known for his nuanced performances and remarkable talent, Irrfan was a force to be reckoned with. In a recent interview with journalist-author Shubhra Gupta, his wife and writer Sutapa Sikdar shared her perspective on his journey, highlighting the impact of language on his career.
Sutapa revealed that Irrfan, whose mother tongue was Hindi, initially struggled with the English language. She believed that his comfort level took time to develop, and that language acted as a barrier for him in the West. Sutapa candidly expressed her belief that if Hollywood movies were made in Hindi, Irrfan would have undoubtedly received an Oscar by now. Her words reflect the profound faith she had in Irrfan’s talent and the recognition he deserved.
Despite these perceived language barriers, Irrfan managed to transcend geographical boundaries and garnered international acclaim for his performances in renowned movies like “Life of Pi,” “Jurassic World,” “Inferno,” and the Oscar-winning “Slumdog Millionaire.” His ability to captivate audiences across cultures is a testament to his sheer brilliance as an actor.
Sutapa also shared an anecdote from the shooting of “Inferno,” where Irrfan engaged in a conversation with the legendary Hollywood composer Hans Zimmer. Despite her apprehension, Irrfan effortlessly conversed with Zimmer, leaving Sutapa in awe of his command over the English language. It was moments like these that showcased Irrfan’s dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Sutapa fondly recalled some of her favorite performances by Irrfan, including the American drama series “In Treatment,” the romantic comedy “Qarib Qarib Single,” and the critically acclaimed “Maqbool.” However, it was Irrfan’s portrayal of the titular character in the National Award-winning film “Paan Singh Tomar” that deeply moved her. Sutapa emotionally revealed that it was during this film that she truly felt the power of Irrfan’s performance and acknowledged it, which led to a shared heartfelt moment between them.
“Irrfan: Life in Movies,” an upcoming book by Shubhra Gupta, provides a comprehensive account of Irrfan’s life and achievements. From his formative years at the National School of Drama to his remarkable journey in television and film, the book delves into the essence of Irrfan’s art, craft, and lasting legacy. Through insightful conversations with key individuals such as director Mira Nair, Vishal Bharadwaj, and Anurag Basu, the book celebrates the immense contributions of this remarkable actor.
In retrospect, Irrfan Khan’s artistic brilliance transcended language barriers, touching the hearts of audiences worldwide. His profound impact on cinema, combined with the unwavering support of his wife Sutapa Sikdar, created a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. Irrfan’s dedication, talent, and ability to break through barriers remind us that true artistry knows no boundaries.